What Should Baby Sunscreen Be Like?

Sun protection is extremely important, especially for babies and young children. Since babies' sensitive skin does not yet have a natural protection layer, it is more vulnerable to the sun's harmful UV rays. Therefore, precautions to be taken before sun exposure are of great importance. Protection from the harmful effects of sun rays positively affects the skin health and general health of babies. In this article written by Evla experts, you can find information about choosing suitable sunscreen for babies and its correct use; You can learn the best methods to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun. So, what should be the appropriate sunscreen for babies?

Why is Sun Protection Important?

Protecting babies and children from the sun is a priority from the day they are born. The sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause skin burns and eye damage; It may also increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. Therefore, the selection and correct use of sunscreen in babies and children, as in adults, is important for their healthy growth.

How to Choose Sunscreen for Babies?

Since babies' skin is more sensitive than adults, it is important to choose sunscreens carefully. Choosing the appropriate sunscreen for babies may vary depending on many factors such as the safety of the ingredients it contains, its ability to not irritate the skin, water resistance and UV protection factor. When choosing suitable sunscreen for babies, it is important to pay attention to the following factors:

1. SPF Value: Sun protection factor (SPF) indicates the amount of protection provided by sunscreen. Sunscreens containing at least SPF 30+ for babies; If possible, sunscreens with SPF 50+ should be preferred. This provides a higher level of protection against the harmful effects of the sun.

2. Broad Spectrum Protection: Sunscreen for babies should be broad spectrum, that is, providing protection against UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays cause sunburn on the skin, while UVA rays can lead to skin aging and cancer.

3. Waterproof: It is inevitable for babies to sweat and come into contact with water. Therefore, water-resistant sunscreens should be preferred. However, even if sunscreen is water-resistant, it must be reapplied regularly as it will lose its effectiveness after swimming or sweating.

4. Hypoallergenic and Fragrance-Free: Babies' sensitive skin is sensitive to substances that can cause allergic reactions. Therefore, hypoallergenic and perfume-free sunscreens should be preferred.

5. Dermatologist Approval: Sunscreen must be tested and approved by dermatologists. This shows that the product is suitable for babies' skin and can be used safely.

In addition, baby sunscreens generally have two different categories: mineral and chemical. Having information about these categories when choosing sunscreen for the baby; “Which sunscreen should be used for the baby?” It may help find the answer to the question:

• Mineral sunscreens: These types of baby sunscreens stay on the skin and create a barrier against sun rays. It usually contains zinc or titanium. Mineral sunscreens can leave a white film when applied and can be easily removed with water or sweat.
• Chemical sunscreens: These types of sunscreens protect the skin by absorbing sunlight into the skin and then converting it into heat. It does not leave a white film like mineral sunscreens and is water resistant.

How to Use Baby Sunscreen?

The use of sunscreen in babies stands out as an essential element of protecting the skin of babies and young children while allowing them to go out in the sun safely. However, it is important to follow the correct techniques and precautions when using sunscreen.

• Apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before sun exposure.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after exposure to water or sweating.
• Apply sunscreen to all exposed areas such as the baby's face, hands, arms and legs.
• After applying sunscreen, dress the baby in sun-protective clothing and keep him/her in the shade.
• Reapply sunscreen generously and approximately every 2 hours.

A frequently asked question is "When to apply baby sunscreen?" The question can be answered this way. In addition to all these recommendations, it is recommended to carefully read the label on the sunscreen and follow the relevant instructions.

Which Babies Should Use Sunscreen?

In addition to providing the energy that is the source of life, the sun can also cause harmful effects. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are dangerous to the skin and eyes and can lead to skin cancer. One quarter of the lifetime exposure to sunlight usually occurs during childhood and adolescence. Since children spend long periods of time outdoors, especially in the summer months, it is extremely important to protect them from the harmful effects of the sun.

All children should use a sunscreen of SPF 30+ or ​​higher, regardless of their skin tone. If babies are younger than 6 months, they should be kept away from the sun and sunscreen should be used if necessary. Adults should also be good role models by using sunscreen.

What Do Evla Experts Say?

Sunscreen can help protect against sunburn and some skin cancers, but only when used correctly. Sunscreen is not used to provide longer exposure to the sun; It should be used to protect against the harmful effects of the sun. When choosing sunscreens for yourself and your baby, avoid those containing PABA and oxybenzone.

Babies have very sensitive skin that can react to sunscreens. If your baby is younger than 6 months, it is not recommended to use sunscreen. For older babies, test the sunscreen on a small area of ​​skin on the inside of the forearm for a few days to check for a reaction. Sunscreen should be used as a last line of defense after avoiding direct sunlight, wearing clothing, a hat, and shade. If your baby needs to be exposed to the sun, apply sunscreen to small areas of his or her skin that are not covered by clothing or a hat.

For babies under 6 months, if there is no protective clothing and shaded area, apply sunscreen to small parts of the body, especially the face. For babies older than 6 months, apply sunscreen to the whole body, but be careful around the eyes. If your baby puts sunscreen on his eyes, immediately wipe his eyes and hands with a damp cloth. If you find that sunscreen causes irritation on baby's skin, try a different brand or use a sunscreen that contains titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. If your baby develops a rash, consult your doctor.

In addition to all this, UV radiation can damage your child's eyes. If your baby's eyes burn in the sun, they will become red and painful. But repeated sun exposure can lead to serious, long-term eye problems such as cataracts, retinal, corneal damage or cancer. It's a good idea to get your child used to wearing sunglasses from an early age. Try to make this a normal part of dressing for the outdoors. Modeling this behavior by wearing sunglasses when you are outside during the day can help him get used to using sunglasses, too.

Sun protection measures are of great importance to protect the skin health of babies. Choosing the right sunscreen and using it regularly helps protect babies from the harmful effects of the sun. Appropriate sunscreen for babies should be selected by paying attention to factors such as SPF degree, broad spectrum protection, water resistance, hypoallergenic structure and dermatologist approval. Remember, sun protection habits should start from an early age and continue regularly.